DNA, GPS led to Rutland slaying suspect

EAST BROOKFIELD — Biological fluids and a cell phone GPS led police to the Holden man they believe stabbed his younger brother to death in Rutland, leaving him with more than 70 stab wounds.

Michael S. Dowjat, 65, of 119 Lovell Road., Holden was arraigned in Western Worcester District Court Friday on a single count of murder.

He was arrested Thursday by state and Rutland police who were investigating the death of David Alan, 59.

In court, Assistant District Attorney Terry J. McLaughlin said investigators were able to match Mr. Dowjat's DNA to samples taken from the crime scene at Mr. Alan's home.

Armed with a search warrant, they also used GPS tracking and discovered that Mr. Dowjat's cell phone had been in the area of his brother's home on June 8, the day they believe Mr. Alan was killed.

Mr. Alan was found dead in a locked basement bomb shelter in his home at 124 East County Road (Route 68) after a friend called and asked police to check on him June 14. Officers found Mr. Alan in what neighbors said they were told was a grisly crime scene.

Court records show the brothers had a contentious relationship, arguing in probate court over money. Several years ago, Mr. Alan was granted a restraining order to keep his brother away from him.

Their now-deceased father was also afraid of Mr. Dowjat, court documents show.

When police went to Mr. Dowjat's home in Holden, they found he had a black eye and other bruises on his hands and legs that were not consistent with the story he told family and friends. He allegedly said he had been bitten by a dog and fallen into some bushes.

He allegedly told police he had not had contact with his brother for years but the cell phone data "showed that Dowjat was in close proximity to the decedent's residence on numerous dates around the time that investigators believe that the attack occurred," a police report states.

In court before Judge Maura McCarthy, Mr. Dowjat's lawyer, James G. Reardon Jr., said he would not fight the commonwealth's request for no bail.

Clad in a grey Western New England College T-shirt, Mr. Dowjat stood quietly and appeared to scan the courtroom for familiar faces as he was led back into the lockup after his appearance.

Mr. Reardon said Mr. Dowjat suffers from significant heart disease and requires medication. He asked that his client's glasses be returned as "He really can't see."

Mr. Reardon said he may request a bail hearing at some point and added that the Dowjat family is trying to raise money.

A woman believed to be Mr. Dowjat's wife, Mary, quickly left the courtroom after the arraignment and would not speak to a reporter.